Recently, researchers have made a significant discovery in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. During an investigation at a fossil-rich site in Prakasam, archaeologists from Vadodara University, along with experts from Germany, Australia, and the US, uncovered the world’s oldest ostrich nest dating back 41,000 years. The nest contained 911 ostrich eggs and measured between 9 to 10 feet in width, capable of holding up to 30 to 40 eggs at a time.
This finding provides valuable insights into the behavior and habitat of ancient megafaunal birds like ostriches. According to Devara Anil Kumar, Assistant Professor at MSU’s Department of Archaeology and Ancient History in Vadodara, this discovery is crucial in understanding the extinction of megafaunal species in India. The uncovering of nearly 3,500 fragments of ostrich eggshells within a small area further proves the historical presence of ostriches in Southern India and establishes the existence of the world’s oldest ostrich nest.
This groundbreaking discovery sheds light on the ancient history of ostriches in India and their nesting behavior. It provides researchers with a rare glimpse into the past and offers insights into how these birds lived and interacted with their environment.
